Job Description

Assists the Utility Plant Operating Engineer in operating the plant, performs routine operating and maintenance tasks associated with plant operations and the production of utilities (e.g., steam, chilled water, and electrical generating equipment), and performs regular inspection tours of the utility plant and related facilities. Under the direction of the Utility Plant Operating Engineer, operates boilers, steam turbine generators, diesel/natural gas generators, chillers, electrical switchgear and substations as well as associated auxiliary equipment. Maintains logs, prepares equipment for operations or shutdown condition, monitors instrument readings and performs related duties as assigned.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Under the supervision of the Utility Plant Operations Supervisor and under the general direction of the Utility Plant Operating Engineer, performs operating and maintenance tasks to ensure safe and proper operation, monitoring and control of all equipment associated with plant operations and the production of utilities.
• Participate in the starting, control, operation, shutdown and inspection of boilers, steam turbine generators, diesel/natural gas generators, chillers, electrical switchgear, substations and all other equipment associated with plant operations and the production of utilities.
• Communicates regularly with the Utility Plant Operating Engineer and Utility Plant Operations Supervisor and takes action in order to safely maintain or restore utility production.
• Prepare/maintain logs, charts, and other operating records.
• Monitor instrumentation for proper operating conditions and determines nature and cause of trouble.
• With advice and direction from Utility Plant Operating Engineer and/or Utility Plant Operations Supervisor, performs necessary corrective action to protect personnel, equipment, system integrity, and to maintain optimum efficiency and safety.
• Review plant and equipment status with personnel on shift and via control/computerized systems to monitor load conditions, status, etc.
• Observe various instruments, records readings, and evaluates readings.
• Obtains advice and direction from Utility Plant Operating Engineer and/or Utility Plant Operations Supervisor, and takes appropriate action as necessary to protect personnel, equipment, system integrity, and to maintain optimum efficiency and safety.
• Participates in emergency response training and drills.
• Perform inspection tours of utility plant and related facilities as needed.
• May be required to perform duties of Utility Plant Operating Engineer on an as needed basis (if qualified and when directed).
• Perform routine operating maintenance, including cleaning of equipment and plant work areas.
• Participate in emergency response activities; may be assigned work of equal or lower skill level, including maintenance work; and must participate in mandatory training and other programs as required.
• Must observe and comply with all codes and perform work in accordance with recognized industry standards; University policies, procedures, and standards; and local, state, and federal laws/requirements.
• Performs other related duties as required.

Working Conditions:

• Emergency Status Designation: Critical Operations Personnel (required to provide on-site support during emergency situations as determined by management).

Physical Requirements:

• Must be physically fit and mentally alert at all times.
• Must be able to perform all duties in a utility/industrial plant environment that includes exposure to loud noises, chemicals, temperature extremes, inclement weather conditions, airborne particles, vibration, hazardous materials, stairs, ladders, confined spaces, etc.; requires stooping, bending, climbing, reaching, lifting, and carrying; working from ladders, scaffolds, high-lifts, and in confined spaces; and lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 65 pounds.
• Required to wear personal protective equipment and clothing where appropriate; may be required to wear a respirator (negative pressure or equivalent) and other respiratory protection equipment up to the level of Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).
• At no time is facial hair permitted. Required to participate in Hearing Conservation and medical surveillance programs.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• High School diploma or equivalent, with a minimum of three years’ prior work experience in the operation of modern high-pressure boilers and applicable auxiliary equipment required.
• Requires valid Commonwealth of Massachusetts’s First Class Fireman’s License.
• Must have, or successfully obtain within 6 months of hiring, EPA CFC certification (universal).
• Valid State driver’s license required. Driving history must meet University Operations Services standards.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Safety conscious, have a fair degree of mechanical ability, and have in-depth working knowledge of the power plant cycle.
• Possess a high degree of professionalism and the ability to work well independently and effectively with others.
• Detail oriented and have a good safety record, and the ability to take and follow directions intelligently.
• Able to handle multiple tasks and prioritize work effectively.
• An ongoing willingness to acquire new skills and utilize technology to streamline processes and problem solve is essential.
• Familiarity with databases, spreadsheet, email, and word processing software is helpful.
• Experience to interface with/utilize control systems and computerized asset/maintenance management systems.
• May be required to work overtime relief, off-shift, emergency coverage (nights, weekend, etc.) and /or other schedules, as needed. Commonwealth of Massachusetts’s Grade I or higher Industrial Wastewater Treatment Operator’s license desirable.
• May be required to operate cranes, forklifts (and/or similar machinery), or lifting devices.

Certificates and Licenses:

• Requires valid Commonwealth of Massachusetts’s First Class Fireman’s License.
• Must have, or successfully obtain within 6 months of hiring, EPA CFC certification (universal).
• Valid State driver’s license required. Driving history must meet University Operations Services standards.

Additional Information

Standard Hours/Schedule:

• 40 hours per week
• Sunday: 6:00 am – 2:00 pm
• Monday: 6:00 am – 2:00 pm
• Tuesday: 6:00 am – 2:00 pm
• Wednesday: 6:00 am – 2:00 pm
• Thursday: 6:00 am – 2:00 pm
• Friday: OFF
• Saturday: OFF

Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable):

• $52.67/hour

Visa Sponsorship Information:

• Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position

Pre-Employment Screening:

• Identity
• Education
• Criminal
• Certification/License
• Motor Vehicle Record
• Drug Test
• References

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Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 000. Corresponding salary information can be found in the job description above.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

• Generous paid time off including parental leave
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
• Retirement plans with university contributions
• Wellbeing and mental health resources
• Support for families and caregivers
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.